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Abstract Objectives In the present era, parents frequently stigmatize themselves for their children’s negative behaviors and inadequate social skills. Parents’ self-stigma (PSS) may lead to a decrease in parental self-efficacy and quality of marital and family life. In light of these reasons, the principal objective of this study to assess the validity and reliability of the Turkish version of the PSS Scale (PSSS) as developed by Eaton et al. (2019) and to investigate the indirect effect that parenting stress has on the relationship between PSS and parental self-efficacy. Methods We collected data from a total of 1,118 parents via random sampling, with the first part of the study involving 645 participants (M age = 32.64 ± 7.28) and the second part of the study involving 473 participants (M age = 27.43 ± 9.87). In the first part of the study, we employed structural equation modeling for the confirmatory factor analysis and Pearson’s correlation coefficient for the criterion-related validity, average variance extracted, and composite reliability analyses. Moreover, we calculated Cronbach’s alpha, McDonald’s omega, and Guttman split-half coefficients for the reliability analyses. In the second part of the study, we utilized Hayes’ bootstrapping method to assess the indirect effect of parenting stress on the relationship between PSS and parental self-efficacy. Results The first part of the study confirms the PSSS’s 11-item, 3-factor structure, showing the Turkish form to have acceptable goodness-of-fit indices, and found Cronbach’s alpha for the PSSS to be 0.89. Furthermore, the first part of the study demonstrates a significant negative correlation between marital life satisfaction and PSS. Meanwhile, the second part of the study has determined PSS to be positively related to parenting stress and negatively related to parental self-efficacy. The second part of the study also indicates parenting stress to have an indirect effect on the association between PSS and parental self-efficacy. Conclusions The study indicates the Turkish version of the PSSS to be a valid and reliable instrument in Turkish culture for measuring parents’ PSS levels regarding their children, with higher scores indicating greater PSS. The scale can be effectively used in both research and clinical settings. The study also suggests parental stress to have a possible impact on the association between PSS and parental self-efficacy. Furthermore, addressing the variables of PSS and parenting stress in family-focused interviews and therapeutic interventions may contribute to increasing parental self-efficacy.

Abstract Background Bullying and victimization have been studied in many contexts and classified as peer victimization in school settings and parental or sibling victimization within family settings. Yet, current research is scarce on whether victimization occurring within family settings is specific to parental or sibling victimization. Thus, the current study aims to develop a scale assessing victimization conducted by relatives and provide support for its psychometric properties. Methods Cross-sectional and longitudinal data were collected from university students (1622 and 1045 students, respectively) and participants responded to questionnaires via an online survey. Results EFA and CFA results demonstrated the unidimensionality of the Relative Victimization Scale (RVS) consisting of eight items. In terms of convergent validity, RVS scores were correlated with the scores on parental, sibling, and peer victimization scales and several psychological health outcomes including depression, anxiety, social anxiety, perceived stress, loneliness, negative and positive affect, life satisfaction, and resilience. Moreover, RVS explained a significant amount of variance beyond the contribution of parental, sibling, and peer victimization in those psychological health outcomes for the support of incremental validity. Conclusions The findings of the study indicated the potential utility of the RVS in assessing the experience of relative victimization through offering support for internal consistency reliability and construct, longitudinal predictive, and incremental validity.

Probability-based methodologies have gained widespread recognition for their pivotal role in steering decision-making in contexts marked by uncertainty or vagueness. In order to guarantee that decisions made in these circumstances are both significant and impactful, various methodologies focused on probability have been devised and utilized. This study seeks to significantly enrich the existing literature by proposing a new probability model termed the weighted sine exponentiated Weibull distribution. Certain characteristics are obtained for the suggested model. Additionally, the parameter estimation method and simulation studies related to the suggested model are also provided. Two distinct data sets, acquired from the disciplines of physical education and reliability, were effectively implemented using the proposed model, resulting in a successful outcome. Through the utilization of the p-value and various tests, it becomes apparent that the weighted sine exponentiated Weibull model consistently surpasses its competitor distributions in terms of statistical significance. The proposed model’s practical illustration highlights its effectiveness and potential for extensive use in both physical education and reliability research and practice.

It is a proven authenticity that probability-schooled methodologies have a cardinal role in making decisions under the vagueness circumstances. Thus, to reach meaningful and fruitful decisions under vagueness circumstances, numerous probability-focused methodologies have been introduced, promoted, and implemented. This paper also contributes to adding another useful probability model to the existing literature for data modeling in engineering-oriented areas. The new model is called the weighted sine exponentiated exponential (WSEE) distribution, which is formed by implementing the exponentiated exponential model together with a sine-adapted method. Certain properties of the WSEE distribution are given. The parameter estimation of the WSEE distribution along with the simulation study is also provided. Last, in order, we apply the WSEE distribution for analyzing three data sets taken from the musical engineering and reliability settings. The optimality of the WSEE distribution is proved by comparing its results with other prominent modifications of the exponentiated exponential distribution. Using 4 statistical criteria as judgment tools, it was shown numerically and pictorially that the WSEE distribution is an optimal and suitable model for the musical engineering reliability data sets.

Abstract Background Globally, the issue of high nurse turnover rates is prevalent in China. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated the attrition rate of nurses. Turnover intention is the most reliable predictor of nurse turnover. However, there is currently a lack of proper evaluation tools in China. This study aimed to translate the Nurses Turnover Intention Scale (NTIS) into Chinese and examine the psychometric characteristics of the Chinese version of the NTIS among clinical nurses in China. Methods Approximately 418 nurses were recruited from three tertiary general hospitals in Jiangxi, Guangdong, and Zhejiang provinces. This study used Brislin’s double-back translation, back-translation, and cross-cultural adaptation methods to translate the scale. Internal consistency, split-half reliability, and test-retest reliability were used to measure the reliability of the Chinese scale version. The validity of the Chinese scale version’s content was evaluated via the Delphi method. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were carried out to evaluate the construct validity of the Chinese scale versions. In exploratory factor analysis, principal component analysis and maximum variance rotation method were used in this study. In the confirmatory factor analysis, Amos 24.0 software was used for analysis. Results The NTIS in Chinese has ten elements: a Cronbach α coefficient of 0.864, a Cronbach α coefficient of 0.852∼0.903 for the three dimensions, and a split-half reliability and test-retest reliability of 0.878 and 0.960, respectively. This indicates that the Chinese version of the NTIS has good internal consistency and time stability. The scale-level content validity index (S-CVI) was 0.957, which indicated that the Chinese version of NTIS had good content validity. The total variance contribution rate was 79.055%, and three common factors were identified via exploratory factor analysis. The examined three-factor structure was confirmed by confirmatory factor analysis, which confirmed that all fit indices were appropriate. Conclusions The Chinese version of the NTIS was appropriate in terms of reliability and validity. This scale can be used to evaluate nurses’ turnover intention, and the outcomes can aid nurse management in designing training initiatives and implementing preventive measures to decrease nurse turnover.

Abstract This study evaluated the reliability and validity of the Chinese version of the “Motivational Climate in Physical Education Scale” (MCPES) among middle school students. Data were collected from 1,008 students, with 473 completing the MCPES, the Physical Needs Support in Physical Education Scale (PNS-PE), and the Youth Sports Friendship Quality Scale (YSFQS). Additionally, 437 students completed only the MCPES, and 200 valid retest questionnaires were gathered three weeks later. Exploratory factor analysis identified four factors: perceived mastery climate, perceived performance climate, perceived autonomy support, and perceived relatedness support with a total of 16 items. Confirmatory factor analysis supported the four-factor structure (χ2/df = 3.38, GFI = 0.92, NFI = 0.90, RMSEA = 0.07, CFI = 0.93, IFI = 0.93, SRMR = 0.05). The scale exhibited strict measurement invariance across genders and strong invariance across grade levels. It was positively correlated with teacher autonomy support (r = 0.34–0.53) and with each dimension and total score of sports friendship (r = 0.21–0.61). Cronbach’s α coefficients for the MCPES and its dimensions were 0.75, 0.82, 0.79, 0.80, and 0.88, respectively. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) for the three-week retest were 0.64, 0.63, 0.72, and 0.76. In conclusion, the Chinese version of the MCPES demonstrates robust reliability and validity for use with middle school students.

Abstract Background Irrational drug use has become a global problem threatening human health. As future health professionals, medical college students’ medication literacy (ML) is critical. Their mastery of medication-related knowledge will directly affect public medication safety in the future. Methods The initial scale was developed through a literature review and was modified through expert consultation and student interviews to form the initial scale with 14 items. In 2020, a questionnaire survey was conducted among students in a medical college for item analysis, reliability test, validity test and other analyses. Results The total Cronbach’s α coefficient was 0.826 and split-half reliability was 0.852. The Cronbach’s α coefficients for functional medication literacy, communicative medication literacy, and critical medication literacy were 0.901, 0.858, and 0.851, respectively. The item-level content validity index (I-CVI) ranged from 0.833 to 1.000 (≥ 0.78). Factor analysis of 14 items showed that KMO = 0. 852(> 0.7) and Bartlett’s spherical test p 40%). The confirmatory factor analysis identified a three-factor model and showed goodness of fit indices for the scale: The χ²/df = 2.623, The Goodness of Fit Index (GFI) = 0.905, The Comparative Fit Index (CFI) = 0.950, Normed Fit Index (NFI) = 0.922, Tucker-Lewis index (TLI) = 0.938, and The Root Mean Square Error of Approximation (RMSEA) = 0.078. Conclusion A new scale for evaluating the medication literacy of Chinese medical college students was preliminarily developed, demonstrating good reliability and validity. Itcan be used as a preliminary measurement tool for assessing medical students’ medication literacy. However, due to the limitations of this study, the practical application of the scale needs to be further examined in a larger sample and should be refined in future studies.

In this paper, an optimal integrated production - maintenance strategy for a solar power plant, is presented. An optimal maintenance cost model applied to solar power plant with the aim of simultaneously maximizing a plant reliability and minimizing a maintenance cost was developed. The maintenance strategy is a combined priority imperfect/selective maintenance strategy, which selects the priority components for maintenance in order to reduce maintenance downtime. The goal of the paper is to simultaneously determine the optimal energy production and maintenance plan, characterized by the quantity of energy stored and the losses incurred when the energy demand is unmet. The strategy is to minimize the expected total cost of energy production (generation, storage, and shortage) as well as maintenance over a limited time horizon. Thus, determining the energy production economic plan, and the optimal number of maintenances to be performed that yields maximum reliability associated with the cost. A numerical example was presented to validate the developed model using Sokoto solar power plant in Nigeria as the case study.

Aseel AlSaleh,1 Waqar Husain,2 Khaled Trabelsi,3,4 Hadeel Ghazzawi,5 Achraf Ammar,6,7 Zahra Saif,8 Seithikurippu R Pandi-Perumal,9,10 Maha M AlRasheed,11 Ahmed S BaHammam,12,13 Haitham Jahrami8,14 1Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Arabian Gulf University, Manama, Bahrain; 2Department of Humanities, COMSATS University Islamabad, Islamabad Campus, Islamabad, Pakistan; 3High Institute of Sport and Physical Education of Sfax, University of Sfax, Sfax, 3000, Tunisia; 4Research Laboratory: Education, Motricity, Sport and Health, EM2S, LR19JS01, University of Sfax, Sfax, 3000, Tunisia; 5Nutrition and Food Technology Department, Agriculture School, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan; 6Department of Training and Movement Science, Institute of Sport Science, Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, 55099, Germany; 7Research Laboratory, Molecular Bases of Human Pathology, LR19ES13, Faculty of Medicine of Sfax, University of Sfax, Sfax, 3000, Tunisia; 8Department of Psychiatry, Government Hospitals, Manama, Bahrain; 9Centre for Research and Development, Chandigarh University, Mohali, Punjab, 140413, India; 10Division of Research and Development, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, 144411, India; 11Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia; 12The University Sleep Disorders Center, Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, King Saud University, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; 13King Saud University Medical City, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; 14Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Arabian Gulf University, Manama, BahrainCorrespondence: Haitham Jahrami, Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Arabian Gulf University, Manama, Bahrain, Email haitham.jahrami@outlook.comPurpose: The Pre-Sleep Arousal Scale (PSAS) is a well-recognized instrument utilized for measuring cognitive and somatic arousal before sleep. Although the PSAS is useful, an Arabic version of the scale has not yet been developed and validated. The current study aimed to translate the PSAS into Arabic language and evaluate its psychometric properties, such as reliability and validity, in an Arabic-speaking population.Patients and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 438 participants who completed the Arabic version of the PSAS, along with other validated measures of insomnia, anxiety, and sleep effort.Results: The results indicated that the Arabic version of the PSAS maintained the original scale’s two-factor structure. The factor loadings for PSAS-Cognitive ranged from 0.57 to 0.75, and for PSAS-Somatic, from 0.45 to 0.70, with all loadings being statistically significant (p < 0.001). The Arabic version of the PSAS exhibited high internal consistency (McDonald’s ω = 0.86; Cronbach’s α = 0.86; Guttman’s λ 2 = 0.86; Greatest Lower Bound = 0.90) and test–retest reliability (ICC = 0.88) over two weeks. The PSAS demonstrated good concurrent and convergent validity. We documented significant large differences between individuals with “no insomnia” and those with “insomnia” symptoms across cognitive, somatic, and total pre-sleep arousal (all p < 0.001). The insomnia group consistently scored higher scores for PSAP and its subscales.Conclusion: These findings suggest that the Arabic version of the PSAS is a reliable and valid tool for assessing pre-sleep arousal in Arabic-speaking individuals.Keywords: Arabic version, insomnia, pre-sleep arousal, PSAS, psychometric properties, reliability, validity

Abstract Wind power DC collection system, as a crucial component of wind farms, plays a vital role in ensuring the safe and stable operation of the entire wind farm. This paper proposes a reliability assessment method for wind power DC collection systems based on MLFTA-SMC. Firstly, it analyzes the topology and key equipment of wind power DC collection systems. Secondly, based on the topology of different wind power DC collection systems, it constructs multi-level fault tree models to calculate the comprehensive importance of different events, thus providing data support for subsequent reliability assessment. Then, it utilizes the MLFTA-SMC method to assess and analyze the reliability of different wind power DC collection system topologies. Finally, taking a 100 MW wind farm in Northwest China as an example, the proposed reliability assessment method is verified through simulation. The results indicate that this method exhibits good effectiveness and superiority.

Abstract To scientifically and effectively manage exhaust pollution in underground confined spaces and reduce hazards from personnel exhaust exposure, a systematic study of the distribution characteristics of diesel locomotive exhaust emissions in mines is needed. Aiming at large underground coal mining operations, an experimental platform for the physical simulation of vehicle exhaust transport in restricted spaces is designed and created. The Hongliulin Coal Mine in Shaanxi Province, China, is used as a prototype, and the platform consists of a coal mining face system, ventilation system, exhaust emission system, monitoring and surveillance system, and control platform. The experimental platform with carbon dioxide simulation of diesel exhaust pollution, in the role of different wind speed, the concentration of carbon dioxide is a downward trend, the wind speed is in the low wind speed on the 0.2 m of the concentration difference of 25.75%; the experimental platform exhaust transport process presents a clear “three-zone” change rule; experimental platform carbon dioxide concentration and the field nitrogen dioxide concentration change trend is consistent. The platform functions and features can provide guidance for mine exhaust management and exhaust exposure hazard prevention and control.

Abstract Objective This study aims to assess the consistency of various CT-FFR software, to determine the reliability of current CT-FFR software, and to measure relevant influence factors. The goal is to build a solid foundation of enhanced workflow and technical principles that will ultimately improve the accuracy of measurements of coronary blood flow reserve fractions. This improvement is critical for assessing the level of ischemia in patients with coronary heart disease. Methods 103 participants were chosen for a prospective research using coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) assessment. Heart rate, heart rate variability, subjective picture quality, objective image quality, vascular shifting length, and other factors were assessed. CT-FFR software including K software and S software are used for CT-FFR calculations. The consistency of the two software is assessed using paired-sample t-tests and Bland-Altman plots. The error classification effect is used to construct the receiver operating characteristic curve. Results The CT-FFR measurements differed significantly between the K and S software, with a statistical significance of P

Abstract Providing quality service is the major concern of many public organizations. However, the way to provide immediate service (responsiveness), the capacity to deliver on promises of accurate and consistent service (reliability), the degree of trust and confidence of students in the service provided by the college (assurance), the physical appearances of the service that the college offers (tangibility) and understanding the needs of students in the college are not as such potential. Thus, the study aims to investigate the effect of a quality service system on student satisfaction in Business and Economics College, University of Gondar. An explanatory research design with a quantitative research approach was employed to address the specified objectives. The population of the study was 6323 and out of these, 376 samples were drawn through stratified random sampling technique. Of 376 self-administer questionnaires, 263 were valuable for this analysis. One of the objectives of the study was to understand the dominant service quality dimension. The finding of the mean score of SERVQUAL dimensions portrays that students are less satisfied with dimension responsiveness (M = 2.31), which implies that the way students get an immediate response for their need showed very low followed by dimension empathy (M = 2.63) i.e., the willingness of staff to support or help students, spontaneous care and concern of staff to student’s needs, is lower, whereas with tangibles, assurance, and reliability are better. The PLS-SEM analysis result confirmed that tangibility and assurance has a significant effect but other service quality dimensions are not.

Abstract Objective This study sought to translate the Antenatal Risk Questionnaire-Revised (ANRQ-R) into Turkish and evaluate its psychometric properties for assessing psychosocial vulnerabilities among Turkish-speaking pregnant women. Methods The ANRQ-R was translated into Turkish following standard linguistic adaptation procedures. Psychometric properties were then examined using a cross-sectional study design, involving 156 pregnant women recruited from antenatal clinics in Turkey. Participants completed the Turkish ANRQ-R and the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). Statistical analyses, including intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) for test-retest reliability, Pearson correlation analysis for item-total test correlations, and Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analysis for diagnostic accuracy, were conducted. Results The ANRQ-R Turkish version showed high test-retest reliability with an ICC of 0.888 for the total score. Moderate to good ICCs were obtained for individual Likert-type items (0.572–0.849). Criterion-related validity was established via moderate correlations with the EPDS and its anxiety subscale EPDS-3 A (r = 0.537 and r = 0.431, respectively). ROC analysis demonstrated good discriminatory power (Area Under the Curve = 0.75) with an optimal cut-off score of 17, yielding 78% sensitivity and 65% specificity for identifying potential depression cases. Conclusions This study provides preliminary evidence of the overall reliability of the Turkish version of the ANRQ-R as a measure of psychosocial risk among Turkish-speaking women during pregnancy. Despite some limitations in item-level internal consistency indicators, integration of the ANRQ-R into routine antenatal care could enhance early identification and intervention strategies, potentially improving maternal health outcomes. Future research should aim to further validate the scale across diverse populations and settings, using a diagnostic tool as the reference standard.

Objective To develop a basic competency assessment scale for generalist nurse in palliative care and test its reliability and validity. Methods The pre-test scale items pool was formed after literature review, internal discussion in the group, consultation with experts and small sample pre-survey. From January to March 2021, the pre-test scale was used to investigate 1 000 nurses in various wards including internal medicine, surgery, emergency, obstetrics and gynaecology, and intensive care units. The results were analyzed by SPSS software and AMOS software to undertake item analysis, exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis to develop the final scale. Results The pre-test scale items pool was formed after literature review, internal discussion in the group, consultation with experts and small sample pre-survey. From January to March 2021, the pre-test scale was used to investigate 1 000 nurses in various wards including internal medicine, surgery, emergency, obstetrics and gynaecology, and intensive care units. The results were analyzed by SPSS software and AMOS software to undertake item analysis, exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis to develop the final scale. Conclusion Our developed basic competency assessment scale for generalist nurse in palliative care has good reliability and validity, and can be used to evaluate the basic competency of palliative care for generalist nurses.

Background and purpose:. The quality of life of patients with chronic kidney failure undergoing hemodialysis is influenced by physical, psychological, and social factors. Accurate assessment of these dimensions using standardized tools is of great importance. This study aimed to determine the psychometric properties of the 12-item Quality of Life Questionnaire in patients undergoing hemodialysis in the Iranian population. Materials and methods: In this cross-sectional study conducted in 2023, 411 hemodialysis patients in Mazandaran were selected through convenience sampling. After translating the Short Form-12 Quality of Life Questionnaire, its psychometric properties were assessed through exploratory factor analysis, network analysis, and confirmatory factor analysis, along with construct validity (convergent and divergent validity). Internal consistency was calculated using Cronbach's alpha and McDonald's omega coefficients. Results: The results of the exploratory factor analysis indicated that two factors—physical health status and mental health status—accounted for 44.55% of the variance in the quality of life among hemodialysis patients. Furthermore, confirmatory factor analysis showed that the hypothesized model had a good fit (CFI= 0.930, IFI= 0.931, RFI= 0.936, TLI= 0.954). The extracted mental health factor in men demonstrated convergent validity (AVE above 0.5), and both factors exhibited appropriate divergent validity. Ultimately, the internal consistency of the Quality of Life Questionnaire was found to be within an acceptable range (greater than 0.7). Conclusion: The psychometric analysis of the Quality of Life Questionnaire indicates that patients with chronic kidney failure undergoing hemodialysis perceive their quality of life through two primary dimensions: physical and mental health status. This study confirmed the psychometric properties (validity and reliability) and the appropriate factor structure of the Persian version of the Quality of Life Questionnaire for patients undergoing hemodialysis. Healthcare providers can use this tool in various studies to assess and improve the quality of life of hemodialysis patients The use of this questionnaire allows researchers and healthcare professionals to more accurately and comprehensively evaluate the different aspects of quality of life in hemodialysis patients. Employing this tool can enhance treatment processes and improve patient satisfaction, serving as a valuable instrument for future research. This study emphasizes the importance of using valid and reliable tools to assess quality of life and recommends that nurses and other healthcare professionals integrate the Persian version of the 12-item Quality of Life Questionnaire into their treatment and research programs to help improve the quality of life of hemodialysis patients and achieve better treatment outcomes. Future studies are recommended to investigate the impact of factors such as nutrition, social support, and rehabilitation programs on the quality of life of hemodialysis patients. Additionally, utilizing this questionnaire in different populations and therapeutic contexts can contribute to the generalizability of the findings and offer a more effective tool for quality of life assessments. Overall, the findings of this study indicate that the 12-item Quality of Life Questionnaire is a reliable and valid tool for assessing the quality of life in hemodialysis patients, making it valuable for both research and clinical programs. Using this tool can help improve patients' quality of life and treatment outcomes while providing essential data for clinical decision-making.

Abstract Background Previous research indicates that routine inquiry or screening conducted by healthcare providers may significantly increase the identification of interpersonal violence. There is a lack of comprehensive instruments to routinely assess patients about interpersonal violence and violence against children in the household. The purpose of this study was to assess the content validity, face validity and reliability of the Questions on Violence (FOV) tool, an instrument specifically designed for routine inquiries about interpersonal violence in healthcare settings within the Swedish context. Methods The content validity, face validity and reliability of the FOV instrument was assessed through (1) a content validity index with six experts in the field of intimate partner violence, (2) cognitive interviews with nine patients recruited from a primary healthcare facility, and (3) an evaluation of the test-retest reliability based on responses from 37(50.0%) university students. The intraclass correlation coefficient, model 2.1, was calculated to assess the degree of correlation and agreement between the two measurements. Results Calculations based on the content validity index indicated that five out of seven items had excellent content validity (≥ 0.78). The average content validity index of included items was 0.88, which is slightly below the recommended threshold for excellent content validity. The results based on the cognitive interviews revealed that participants found the seven items to be relevant and easy to understand. Overall, the participants agreed that the concept of ‘close relationships’ primarily encompassed intimate partners, family members, and close friends. The value of the intraclass correlation coefficient was 0.85 (0.77–0.91; CI 95%), indicating good reliability with an interval of good to excellent test-retest reliability. Conclusions The results demonstrate that the seven-item FOV instrument has good content and face validity as well as good to excellent test-retest reliability. The current study provides healthcare professionals with a short yet comprehensive instrument for identifying patients who have experienced or perpetrated different forms of interpersonal violence.

Abstract Background Reliability of the six-stage cervical vertebrae maturation method to evaluate skeletal growth was evaluated on the combined male and female samples and revealed diverse results. The current study aimed to determine the reliability of the modified three-stage cervical vertebrae maturation method for estimating the skeletal growth of males and females. Methods Pretreatment lateral cephalometric radiographs of 137 orthodontic patients were utilized to evaluate the intra- and inter-observer reliability of a modified cervical vertebrae maturation method. Four independent examiners categorized each radiograph into one of the three skeletal growth stages according to the cervical vertebrae morphology: (1) a pre-peak group (combining the CS1 and CS2 stages), (2) a peak group (combining the CS3 and CS4 stages), and (3) a post-peak group (combining the CS5 and CS6 stages). The Kappa index and the Fleiss multirater Kappa test were carried out to determine the reproducibility of this method. Results The studied sample included cephalometric radiographs of 68 males (49.6%) and 69 females (50.4%) aged between 7 and 58 years; no significant age difference was found between the sexes (p = 0.189). The overall inter-observer reliability was 0.689 (p

Abstract Objectives To translate and revise the Contraceptive Knowledge Assessment (CKA) scale and apply it to Chinese college male/female students. After cross-cultural adjustment of the source scale, the reliability and validity of the Chinese version of the scale were tested. Study design This study utilized a cross-sectional research design. Translation, cognitive interviews and a psychometric evaluation were carried out. A survey was then conducted among 388 college students in Shanghai to test the reliability and validity of the Chinese version of the CKA scale. Results There were 22 items in the Chinese version. Factor analysis extracted 8 common factors, with a cumulative contribution rate of 58.923%, and 3 items were eliminated. The Cronbach’s α coefficient was 0.793, and the test-retest reliability Pearson correlation coefficient was 0.743. Conclusion The Chinese version of the CKA scale has good reliability and validity and is suitable for assessing the level of contraceptive knowledge.

Abstract Backgrounds This study aimed to assess the validity and reliability of the Turkish version of the Individual Work Performance Questionnaire (IWPQ). Methods A total of 340 adult participants who had been working for at least 8 h a day completed the study questionnaire online. The questionnaire consisted of sections on demographics and socioeconomic characteristics, the IWPQ, and the ultrashortened version of the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES-3). Principal component analysis (PCA) with Promax rotation was conducted to assess the e three-factor structure for the Turkish version of the IWPQ. Cronbach’s alpha was used to determine internal consistency. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was used to assess test-retest reliability. Spearman correlation coefficients were calculated between the IWPQ and UWES-3 scales to evaluate convergent validity. Results The three factors accounted for a total variance ratio of 60.7%. Cronbach’s alphas of three subscales (task performance, contextual performance, and counterproductive work behavior) were 0.894, 0.875, and 0.796, respectively. Test-retest reliability showed high agreement, with ICCs of 0.96, 0.98, and 0.91 for the respective scales. There was a statistically significant correlation between UWES-3 and the task performance subscale (ρ = 0.367 and p

Abstract Background Social and emotional development are important aspects of young children’s well-being but can be difficult to assess during the first years of life. The Ages and Stages Questionnaire: Social-Emotional Second Edition (ASQ:SE-2) is a parent-rated assessment tool for child socioemotional development between 1 and 72 months of age. In this study, we examined the psychometric properties of this instrument in 18-month-old Swedish children. Methods Data from 586 Swedish-speaking parents of 18-month-old children were included. In addition to the ASQ:SE-2, parents also completed the Social-Emotional Assessment/Evaluation Measure (SEAM), and the child’s socioemotional development was assessed by a nurse at the Child Health Services. We used exploratory factor analysis and Rasch methodology to explore dimensionality and item properties of the ASQ:SE-2. Furthermore, we used Pearson and Spearman rank correlations to study associations with the SEAM and the nurse assessment. Results An exploratory factor analysis suggested a one-factor model for the ASQ:SE-2 items. However, several items showed weak factor loadings, and a final scale including 18 of the original 29 items was further explored. The Rasch analysis revealed problems with targeting, and the final scale showed acceptable reliability only in the 22% with the highest levels of socioemotional difficulties. The total score of the final version showed a strong association with the parent-rated SEAM but a weak association with the nurse observations. We labeled the reduced 18-item scale Social Interaction. Conclusions The results of this study highlight that the original Swedish version of the ASQ:SE-2 for 18-month-old children may not be an adequate tool for assessing social and emotional competencies in a normal population since acceptable reliability was reached only in children with the greatest difficulties (above the 78th percentile). In conclusion, the suggested 18-item version works best either as a screening instrument for problems with social interaction or as a continuous measure of such problems in children with high levels of social interaction difficulties.

Objective Door system is the most frequently used critical system during vehicle operation, so it is necessary to study its reliability and failure characteristics to ensure the safe operation of urban rail transit. Method Based on the data of door system failure conditions across various Shanghai Rail Transit lines from February 2021 to February 2022, a simulation model based on FTA (fault tree analysis) is established under given state transition rules. Based on this model, the Monte Carlo method is used to simulate the reliability of unknown failure modes: by performing static simulation, the pseudo-random numbers are generated using the linear congruence method to replace real random numbers, and the failure rate of top events and the importance of basic events are calculated; by performing dynamic simulation, the reliability distribution and lifetime sampling values of each component are obtained through multiple distribution fittings; by simulation experiments, the density distribution curves and reliability curves of the system are plotted. Result & Conclusion Numerical results show that，because the failure probability of basic events that obey exponential distribution and Weibull distribution within certain time intervals is very high, thus the system is very likely to fail when it runs into this time interval.

Abstract Background Prompt identification of fracture healing is crucial for medical decision-making and clinical research. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of the Radiographic Union Score for Hip (RUSH) in subtrochanteric fractures and determine the optimal scoring threshold for fracture healing. Methods We obtained 94 sets of X-ray films from the postoperative follow-up of 35 patients who underwent intramedullary nail fixation for subtrochanteric fractures. Six orthopedic trauma surgeons evaluated the imaging data and determined fracture healing based on subjective judgment. They then scored the X-ray images using the RUSH form. After four weeks, the same observers re-evaluated 47 randomly selected sets of radiographs. Subsequently, the observers and study designer conducted a consensus meeting where they agreed on whether the fractures had healed. We used Fleiss kappa to evaluate agreement among observers based on subjective impressions, and the intraclass correlation coefficient assessed RUSH score consistency. Regression analysis examined the relationship between scores and fracture healing consensus using a receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve. Results Based on overall impressions, the agreement level among orthopedic trauma surgeons for determining the healing status of subtrochanteric fractures was moderate (Kappa = 0.564, 95% CI: 0.511–0.616). However, utilizing the RUSH scoring system can improve the consistency to a substantial level of agreement (ICC = 0.748, 95% CI: 0.663–0.817). Regarding intraobserver reliability, there were significant differences among orthopedic trauma surgeons in judging fracture healing based on overall impressions. However, using the RUSH scoring form, the attending group achieved better intraobserver consistency than the resident group. Regression analysis and ROC curve analysis revealed a strong correlation between the RUSH total score, cortical bone score, cancellous bone score, and consensus on fracture healing. The AUC values are 0.769 (95% CI: 0.670–0.868), 0.779 (95% CI: 0.681–0.876), and 0.771 (95% CI: 0.674–0.867), respectively. Conclusions Our study highlights the effectiveness of the RUSH scoring system in enhancing interobserver agreement and intraobserver consistency when evaluating subtrochanteric fracture healing in orthopedic trauma surgeons. We propose setting 21 points as the threshold for the simplified RUSH scoring system to determine fracture healing. This system includes only eight items related to cortical bone, with a total score of 24 points.

Abstract In contemporary times, as accident rates continue to rise, there is a growing interest in vehicular ad hoc networks (VANETs) as a means to reduce accidents and vehicle damage, as well as enhance public safety. VANETs facilitate the transmission of messages within predefined areas to ensure system safety and efficiency. However, ensuring message authenticity in such a dynamic environment presents a significant challenge, with previous research focusing less on security aspects. Some previous protocols send plain message, which leads to the compromise of the message confidentiality. Although few algorithms work on security, they involve the communication to the trusted authority, which lead to increased latency. Thus, in this paper we propose a robust cryptographic scheme for reliable data communication in VANET which minimizes the involvement of trusted authority and uses communication ID of vehicle for communication in place of real entities. Security analysis of the proposed scheme is showing the sturdiness of the proposed protocol again various types of safety spasms. The evaluation of its performance includes assessing communication cost and time, revealing the proposed algorithm's efficiency compared to others.

Abstract Background Most medical organizations accept many nursing students each year who gain clinical practice skills under the supervision of clinical nurses. However, there are no assessment tools to measure the contributions nursing students make to the clinical setting during clinical practicum. This study aimed to translate the 'Nursing Student Contributions to Clinical Settings' scale into Chinese and test its reliability and validity from the perspective of Chinese clinical nurses. And to explore whether nurses' personal and professional characteristics are related to nurses' perception of nursing students' contributions to the clinical settings. Methods The original scale was translated into Chinese following the Brislin translation model. A convenience sample of 935 clinical nurses was selected from January to March 2024 for the survey. The content validity of the scale was assessed by expert consultation and content validity index. Exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis were performed to assess the construct validity of the scale. The reliability of the scale was measured using internal consistency, split-half reliability, and test–retest reliability. The measurement quality of the scales was assessed according to the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments. One-way analysis of variance was used to identify variables related to students’ contributions. Results The content validity index of the scale was 0.983. Exploratory factor analysis supported a one-factor structure, and the cumulative variance contribution was 71.177%. Confirmatory factor analysis showed that the model fit indicators were all within the acceptable range. The McDonald's Omega coefficient and Cronbach's alpha coefficient for the scale were 0.983. Nurses perceive that nursing students' contribution to the clinical settings is influenced by nurses' personal characteristics, professional characteristics, and the hospital environment. Conclusion The Chinese version of the Nursing Student Contributions to Clinical Settings scale has good reliability and validity and can effectively and reliably measure the contributions of Chinese nursing students to clinical settings.

Abstract Background There is currently no dedicated measurement for assessing nursing students’ study interest in China. Considering the good reliability, validity, and widespread applicability of the Study Interest Questionnaire-Short Form (SIQ-SF), the objective of this study was to validate its usage among Chinese nursing students. Methods The translation and cross-cultural adaptation rigorously followed the modified Brislin model. A cross-sectional survey was conducted using the Chinese version of the SIQ-SF and convenience sampling was employed to select nursing students. The Psychometric evaluation of the Chinese version of the SIQ-SF was conducted based on Classical Test Theory and Item Response Theory. Results A total of 1158 participants were included in the analysis. The item-level content validity index (CVI) ranged from 0.9 to 1.0, and the scale-level CVI was 0.98. In the Exploratory factor analysis, three factors with eigenvalues above 1 were identified, accounting for 62.554% of the cumulative variance. In the confirmatory factor analysis, the CMIN\DF was 5.639, the GFI was 0.953, the CFI was 0.902, and the IFI was 0.904. The Cronbach’s α coefficient of the Chinese version of the SIQ-SF was 0.70. Thirty-one participants were invited to sign the scale after two weeks. The intraclass correlation coefficient was 0.784, and that of items ranged from 0.70 to 0.819. The infit MnSQ values ranged between 0.76 and 1.51, and the outfit MnSQ values ranged between 0.72 and 1.76. The point-measure correlation value ranged between 0.30 and 0.68. The item difficulty measures ranged from − 0.66 to 1.44 logit and the individual learning interest estimations ranged from − 4.22 to 4.97 logit. DIF contrast ranged from 0.00 to 0.33 logits, with all p values greater than 0.05. Conclusions The Chinese version of the SIQ-SF demonstrated acceptable reliability and validity among Chinese nursing students and could be used to assess nursing students’ study interest in China. With the aid of this scale, teachers can gain a better understanding of nursing students’ study interests, thereby maximizing their learning effects through appropriate content and methods.

Abstract Background The educational environment plays a critical role in shaping learners’ perceptions and experiences in medical education. Evaluating and enhancing the quality of this environment is essential for the continuous improvement of medical training programs. The Scan of the Postgraduate Educational Environment Domains (SPEED) is a concise instrument that assesses three domains of the educational environment. This study aimed to translate the SPEED questionnaire into Persian and evaluate its validity and reliability in the context of postgraduate. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted with 200 first and second-year medical residents. The Persian translation of the SPEED questionnaire was assessed for content validity, and confirmatory factor analysis was performed to evaluate its structural validity. Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was calculated to assess internal consistency reliability. Results The Persian-translated SPEED questionnaire demonstrated satisfactory content validity, with all items exceeding the minimum acceptable values for content validity ratio and index. Confirmatory factor analysis indicated an acceptable fit for the 3-dimensional structure of the SPEED instrument. Internal consistency reliability analysis showed high reliability for the content, atmosphere, and organization domains. Conclusion The Persian-translated version of the SPEED questionnaire is a valid and reliable tool for assessing the domains of the educational environment in postgraduate medical education.

Abstract Background Motivation is a critical factor in the success of nursing students, as it significantly influences their ability to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills for the nursing profession. Insufficient motivation can result in a lack of engagement with learning activities, thereby impeding the development of essential competencies. Aim This study aimed to translate the Motivation for Nursing Student Scale (MNSS) into Persian and evaluate its psychometric properties within the context of nursing students in Iran. Method This methodological cross-sectional study involved a sample of 542 nursing students selected through convenience sampling. The MNSS was translated into Persian following the guidelines recommended by the World Health Organization. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), and assessments of internal consistency were conducted to evaluate the validity and reliability of the instrument. Results The EFA and CFA validated the structure of the instrument, identifying four factors and 20 items, which explained 58.68% of the total variance. The CFA results indicated a well-fitting model with the following indices: CFI = 0.91, GFI = 0.93, IFI = 0.946, TLI = 0.92, RMSEA = 0.061, and SRMR = 0.049. The Cronbach’s alpha coefficient and Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) for the scale were 0.882 and 0.802, respectively. Conclusion The Persian version of the MNSS demonstrates satisfactory reliability and validity, making it a dependable instrument for measuring the academic motivation of nursing students. This tool can be effectively used to assess the motivation of nursing students in Iran.

Abstract Background Despite an empathic doctor patient relationship being of utmost importance to improve health care outcomes, this aspect is scarcely explored in dental students of Pakistan. This primary objective of the present study was to assess the reliability and validity of the Jefferson Scale of Empathy- Health Professions Student (JSE- HPS) version in a sample of Pakistani dental students. The study also compared the differences in empathy levels of dental students studying in different academic years. Methods This comparative cross-sectional study was conducted on a sample of 304 students from first to final year from selected 02 private and 02 public dental colleges of Karachi, Pakistan from December 2021- January 2022. The self-administered Jefferson Scale of Empathy- Health Professions Student (JSE-HPS) version was used for data collection. This questionnaire includes 20 items that can be answered on a 7-point Likert scale. After attendance sheets were obtained, random student names were marked, and questionnaire distributed by hand to these students. All forms were collected right after to maximize response rate. Results A total of 304 forms with complete data were returned, a response rate of 86.9%. Females (97.79 ± 15 94) were more empathetic than males (94.16 ± 12.13) (p = 0.001). Students of third-year were the most empathetic (p = 0.000). Internal consistency of questionnaire was acceptable (Cronbach’s α- 0.77). Factor analysis revealed factor related to belief that patient’s perspectives improve health outcome had 14 items with factor coefficient > 0.4 contributing to largest proportion of variance (23.15%). Conclusions Our study shows JSE- HPS to have acceptable internal consistency. Structural validity of the scale evaluated by confirmatory factor analysis reported results that were in concordance to those suggested by developers of this scale. In our study population, like other studies, females were more empathic than males. Third-year dental students were more empathetic than students of other undergraduate years.

Abstract Finger vein recognition is an emerging biometric trait known for its privacy features. Despite the remarkable performance of deep learning methods like convolutional neural networks on challenging finger vein datasets, their reliability and robustness need further examination. This study evaluates the robustness of three recognition methods—the traditional Miura Method, a supervised convolutional neural network, and an unsupervised convolutional auto-encoder—through the challenging and more realistic scenario of cross-dataset comparisons. We also analyse the reliability of these methods in terms of sample quality. We introduce a novel vein quality metric to measure vein clarity and complexity and compare it against an existing image quality metric, natural image quality evaluator. Our findings reveal differences in how these recognition methods utilise finger vein images for comparisons, highlighting the need for robust recognition techniques in more realistic scenarios. In addition, our vein quality metric effectively detects defective images, reducing the zero false-match rate from 34.98% to 8.18% on the SDUMLA-HMT dataset. These results indicate the need for metrics more focussing on finger vein image characteristics for effective quality assessment for finger vein images.

Abstract Introduction The Fear of Pain Questionnaire (FOPQ) is a self-report tool designed to measure an individual’s fear of pain (FOP). While the Persian version of the FOPQ (FOPQ-P) has been developed, its validity and reliability have not yet been assessed in the Iranian context. This study aims to evaluate the psychometric properties of the FOPQ-P among Iranian patients after surgery. Methods A methodological study was conducted in 2023 involving 400 post-surgery patients selected with a convenience sampling. The FOPQ was translated into Persian, and its psychometric properties were analyzed using network analysis, exploratory factor analysis (EFA), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), as well as assessments of convergent and discriminant validity. Internal consistency was measured using Cronbach’s alpha, McDonald’s Omega, average inter-item correlation coefficient, Composite Reliability, and Maximal Reliability. Results The EFA results with Promax and Kaiser Normalization rotation identified two factors that explained 54.32% of the variance, comprising seven items. The CFA confirmed the model’s validity. Both convergent and discriminant validity were established. The reliability analyses showed that Cronbach’s alpha, McDonald’s omega, composite reliability, and MaxR for all constructs were above 0.7. Additionally, the average inter-item correlation coefficient was greater than 0.5, indicating strong internal consistency and construct reliability. Conclusion The findings suggest that the FOPQ-P possesses a valid structure and was acceptable reliability in patients cultural context of Iran post-surgery, making it a suitable instrument for measuring fear of pain in this population.

Abstract Background Sleep distrurbances involves daytime preoccupation about sleep, which plays a critical role in perpetuating sleep disturbances. Recent cognitive models highlight the importance of daytime processes, like processing sleep-related information and interpretations during waking hours, in influencing sleep quality and quantity. The Sleep Preoccupation Scale (SPS) quantifies this daytime cognitive activity related to sleep. This study aimed to translate and validate an Arabic version of the SPS for assessing sleep preoccupation among Arabic speakers. Methods 523 Arabic speakers (mean age 23.6 years, 75% female) from four countries completed the Arabic SPS alongside the Athens Insomnia Scale, Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 Scale, and the Anxiety and Preoccupation about Sleep Questionnaire (APSQ). The sample repeated the SPS after two weeks for test-retest reliability. Confirmatory factor analysis evaluated the SPS’s two-factor structure. Internal consistency, item response theory, and convergent validity with the other scales were examined. Results Confirmatory factor analysis supported the two-factor model’s fit. Measurement invariance results suggest that the SPS exhibits a similar basic factor structure across both insomnia and non-insomnia groups. The Arabic SPS demonstrated good internal consistency (Cronbach’s α = 0.92, McDonald’s ω = 0.92) and two-way mixed effects, consistency, single rater/measurement intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.95). Most items exhibited satisfactory item response theory fit statistics and discrimination. The SPS total score showed strong positive correlations with insomnia severity (r = 0.48, p

Purpose: Many available questionnaires fail to distinguish between the severity of symptoms and functional limitations caused by low back pain (LBP) in different areas. Therefore, it is difficult to determine which symptoms and functional limitations are associated with existing low back pain. The lack of a specific questionnaire for functional symptoms and constraints related to back pain in the Persian language in Iran has made it necessary to develop new and reliable tools in this field. Therefore, this research aims to localize and validate the Persian version of this questionnaire. Methods: The questionnaire was finalized after necessary corrections using the translation-re-translation method. Two methods, content validity index (CVI) and content validity ratio (CVR), were used to ensure content validity. The internal consistency test (Cronbach’s α) reliability and test re-test reliability were evaluated. Results: The CVI results indicated that all questions scored above 0.79 in communication, clarity, simplicity, and ambiguity. The questionnaire demonstrated a high level of content validity with an average CVI (S-CUI/Ave) of 0.93. Statistical analysis revealed high internal consistency for the symptoms (26 questions, Cronbach’s α=0.91) and functional limitations (29 questions, Cronbach’s α=0.95) section of the questionnaire. Conclusion: After conducting the questionnaire, it is possible to identify people with varying levels of pain and functional limitations associated with chronic low back pain. It can help determine the progression of symptoms and limitations.

Introduction: Reach tests are commonly used outcome measures to assess balance among various populations. The psychometric properties of these outcome measures help in selecting the most effective tests to enhance the credibility of interventions. Aim: To determine the psychometric properties of reach tests among children aged 5 to 17 years. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted across databases such as PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Cochrane from inception to November 2023. Cross-sectional studies involving children that assessed at least one psychometric property of a reach test and were written in English were included. An adapted version of the Consensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement Instruments (COSMIN) checklist and the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) criteria were used for quality assessment of the psychometric properties. Results: A total of 944 articles were screened, of which 17 studies were included. Eleven studies recruited typically developing children, while six studies used Functional Reach Test (FRT) and its modifications as the primary outcome measure. Another six studies focused on the Sit-and-Reach Test (SRT) and its modifications. The Paediatric Reach Test (PRT) was also utilised in some studies. Conclusion: The FRT demonstrated excellent methodological quality. Other outcome measures showed limitations in their psychometric properties. Therefore, there is a need to refine reach tests in multiple ways to achieve excellent psychometrics that could be beneficial for children aged 5 to 17 years.

Abstract Objective The purpose of the study was to verify the psychometric properties of the Bengali-translated Incontinence Severity Index (ISI) questionnaire. Materials and methods A test–retest data collection method was conducted with 47 respondents using the Bengali-translated ISI questionnaire. Results The mean age of the respondents was 41.4 years; standard deviation (S.D.) ± 9.90. Most of the women were suffering with moderate severity of urinary incontinence 48.9% (n = 23). The present study determined that Bengali-translated ISI questionnaire was valid and reliable. In addition, present study reflected on the content validity of the Bengali version of ISI questionnaire was 1 > 0.75; internal consistency α = 0.80 and intra-class correlation (ICC) = 0.86 respectively. Conclusion The Bengali version of ISI questionnaire is valid and reliable measurement tool to extent the severity of urinary incontinence in the cultural context of Bangladesh.

Abstract To address the prominent problem of collapse instability in shallow buried soft ground tunnels, a non-invasive stochastic finite element method was introduced. Taking Fujian Puyan Wenbishan tunnel as the background project, ABAQUS finite element software was used to analyze the tunnel excavation mechanics and parameter sensitivity. And developed the software interface program based on Python to output explicit limit state equation for the key mechanical indexes of the tunnel, so as to evaluate the tunnel reliability under different excavation methods, quantitatively. Study results show a significant improvement in efficiency and accuracy when calculating the probability of failure in tunnel excavation by the non-invasive stochastic finite element method. The maximum displacement monitoring points for the Wenbishan tunnel portal section were all vault settlement, with displacements of 33.6 mm, 30.2 mm, and 25.3 mm, respectively, using the annular retained core soil method, single sidewall guide pit and double sidewall guide pit method, with probabilities of failure of 36.11%, 28.03%, and 20.02%. It is found that the reliability of the tunnel is mainly determined by the geotechnical weight, elastic modulus and cohesion of the weak sandy soil layer, which can provide ideas for this type of engineering researches.

Abstract Background Multiple trauma injuries are the leading cause of death and disability in people under the age of 45 and require prompt and specialised care. However, medical and nursing education programmes do not always include specific training in emergency pre-hospital care, resulting in a lack of basic practical skills in trauma management. Objective To develop and validate two instruments for assessing nursing students’ competence in cervical collar and spinal board application in simulated pre-hospital emergency scenarios. Method This is an instrumental study that involves the development of two assessment instruments and the evaluation of their psychometric properties in a sample of 392 nursing students. Content validity was assessed using expert judgement, by calculating the content validity ratio (CVR) for each item and the scale level content validity index average (S-CVI/Ave) for the instruments. Exploratory factor analysis using the MINRES extraction method and Promax rotation was performed to analyse the performance of the items and structure of the rubrics. Internal consistency was analysed using the Omega coefficient and inter-rater agreement was assessed using Cohen’s Kappa coefficient. Results Initially, two rubrics were obtained: one with six items for cervical collar placement (S-CVI/Ave = 0.86) and one with nine items for spinal board placement (S-CVI/Ave = 0.81). Both had a single-factor structure, with all items having factor loadings greater than 0.34 for the cervical collar rubric and 0.56 for the spinal board rubric, except for item 2 of the cervical collar rubric (λ = 0.24), which was subsequently removed. The final cervical collar rubric (five items) had an overall internal consistency of 0.84 and the spinal board rubric had an overall internal consistency of 0.90, calculated using the Omega statistic. The weighted Kappa coefficient for each item ranged from acceptable (0.32) to substantial (0.79). These results show that we have successfully developed two sufficiently valid instruments to assess the immobilisation competencies proposed in the objective of the study. Conclusion Whilst further research is needed to fully establish their psychometric properties, these instruments offer a valuable starting point for evaluating nursing students' competence in cervical collar and spinal board application in simulated pre-hospital scenarios.

Abstract Objective Generalized Anxiety Disorder is an international mental health problem. Prevalence for anxiety disorders reported in perinatal period is high and related with adverse parental and child outcomes. Thus, the objective of this study was to investigate the psychometric properties and factorial validity of General Anxiety Disorder-7 questionnaire (GAD-7) in the context of postpartum mothers. Methods In this cross-sectional study, 278 mothers (mean age 31.09; SD = 4.42) were recruited at the Neonatology, Gynecology, and Obstetrics Ward. Generalized Anxiety Disorder was assessed with GAD-7, stress with Parental Stress Scale (PSS), while risk of depression with Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale (EPDS). Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was used to verify factor structure of GAD-7 and the internal consistency was evaluated using reliability coefficients: Cronbach’s Alpha and McDonald’s Omega. Results The internal consistency of the GAD-7 was high (Cronbach’s Alpha = 0.90 and MacDonald’s Omega = 0.91). GAD-7 had significant correlations with the variables examined for construct validity, stress (PSS; r = 0.35, p

In this paper, we propose bivariate iterated Farlie–Gumbel–Morgenstern (FGM) due to [Huang and Kotz (1984). Correlation structure in iterated Farlie-Gumbel-Morgenstern distributions. Biometrika 71(3), 633–636. https://doi.org/10.2307/2336577] with Rayleigh marginals. The dependence stress–strength reliability function is derived with its important reliability characteristics. Estimates of dependence reliability parameters are obtained. We analyse the effects of dependence parameters on the reliability function. We found that the upper bound of the positive correlation coefficient is attaining to 0.41 under a single iteration with Rayleigh marginals. A comprehensive comparison between classical FGM with iterated FGM copulas is graphically examined to assess the over or under estimation of reliability with respect to α and β. We propose a two-phase estimation procedure for estimating the reliability parameters. A Monte-Carlo simulation study is conducted to assess the finite sample behaviour of the proposed reliability estimators. Finally, the proposed estimators are examined and validated with real data sets.

Abstract Second‐life batteries (SLBs), which are batteries retired from electric vehicles (EVs), can be used as energy storage systems to enhance the performance of distribution networks. Two issues should be addressed particularly for the optimal sizing of SLBs. Compared with fresh batteries, the failure rate of SLBs is relatively high, and timely and preventive replacement is needed. In addition, the flexibility introduced by EVs and installed SLBs should be coordinated to achieve optimal economic benefits. This paper focuses on the efficient utilization of SLBs by highlighting reliability‐flexibility concerns in optimal sizing. The model is formulated as a bi‐level model. On the upper‐level, considering the operational reliability constraints of SLBs, decisions regarding the investment and replacement of SLBs are optimized. Distribution network operations are improved on the lowerlevel, with an effective spatiotemporal flexible dispatch strategy for EVs. Finally, a linearized process for the optimal sizing of SLBs is presented and efficiently implemented. The Sioux Falls network and IEEE 69‐node distribution network are coupled as the test system. According to the simulation results, when the state of health of the SLBs decreased to 70%, the conditions were unreliable. The differences in the optimal SLB size and costs considering reliability and flexibility are highlighted.

It is an established and already accomplished fact that probability-based methodologies (or probability/statistical distributions) play the roles of imperative tools in illustrating and describing applied phenomena. Paying attention to these previous facts, this paper considers the evolution of a new probability distribution. Thus, the main achievement of this paper leads to a new probability distribution as a result of combining the exponentiated exponential model with a tangent-based stratagem. The new model is called the tangent exponentiated exponential (TEE) distribution. For the TEE distribution, certain distributional properties and estimators of the model parameters are derived mathematically. The appraisal of the estimators of the TEE distribution is accomplished through a simulation study. Moreover, the applicability and virtuoso of the TEE distribution are exemplified via two data sets, which are taken from the music engineering (named Data 1) and reliability sector (named Data 2). By considering the p-value and three other important statistical tests/methods as diagnostic tools, we find that the TEE distribution is the most useful and optimal model for Data 1 and Data 2 compared to certain candidate probability distributions.

The presence of probability-driven models is highly influential in setting the stage for vital decision-making in domains including reliability, engineering, music engineering, and other closely interconnected scenarios. With a deep understanding of the consequential roles played by probability-arisen models, we have developed and implemented a new probabilistic model. This model is constructed by utilizing the sine-based function and the exponentiated Weibull distribution, and it is known as the exponent power sine exponentiated Weibull (EPSE-Weibull) distribution. Point estimators are derived for the EPSE-Weibull distribution. These estimators are then evaluated through a simulation study. The significance of the EPSE-Weibull distribution is demonstrated through the analysis of reliability and music engineering data sets. In addition to the above, we also utilize two deep learning algorithms, namely Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) and Support Vector Regression (SVR), to forecast the same data sets. The findings indicate that the ANN model consistently exhibits higher levels of accuracy, as evidenced by its lower Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) and Mean Absolute Error (MAE) values compared to the SVR model for both data sets. These findings indicate that ANN is better at capturing the fundamental patterns in the underlying data sets. In addition, visual representations, such as bar charts and line charts, further emphasize the superior performance of the ANN across both data sets.

Background The global prevalence of low back pain is gradually increasing, and it is the main cause of disability, sick leave, and unemployment, posing a heavy burden on individuals and society. Assessing the degree of disability in patients with chronic low back pain is crucial for evaluating the efficacy of clinical interventions and clinical epidemiology. The Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ) is currently the main tool for evaluating disability in patients with low back pain, but the applicability of its measurement performance in the Chinese population remains unclear. Objective To evaluate the applicability of RMDQ in the Chinese population with low back pain and provide evidence for clinical practice and research application. Methods CNKI, Wanfang Data Knowledge Service Platform, SinoMed, PubMed, Embase and Web of Science were searched from inception to 2023-10-01, to establish a literature base for the performance of the low back pain scale, and then select research on the measurement performance of RMDQ from it. The measurement performance of the RMDQ scale was evaluated according to the COSMIN system evaluation guidelines, and the evidence evaluation level was used to grade the evidence. Results A total of six RMDQ documents were included, with insufficient methodological quality for RMDQ content validity and adequate measurement performance. The quality of internal consistency methodology was very good with uncertainty and measurement performance was adequate; the methodological quality of retesting was uncertain, and the measurement performance was sufficient; the methodological quality of measurement error was uncertain, and the measurement performance was sufficient; the methodological quality of criterion validity was uncertain, and the measurement performance was insufficient; hypothesis testing methodological quality was very good with uncertain, and the measurement performance was sufficient and uncertain; the quality of reactivity methodology was very good, with sufficient and insufficient, while the measurement performance was sufficient with insufficient. According to the GRADE evidence quality rating results, there is low quality evidence to prove uncertainty in content validity, and moderate quality evidence to prove sufficient retesting reliability and internal consistency; there is sufficient evidence of low quality to prove the measurement error and reactivity. There is very low quality evidence of insufficient calibration validity when using the Oswestry Dysfunction Index (ODI) and the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) as calibrators; hypothesis testing had moderate quality evidence of uncertainty. Conclusion The methodological quality of the RMDQ scale is not high, with acceptable measurement performanceand low quality of evidence, and needs to be used cautiously in clinical practice or trials of low back pain in China. Although there is sufficient evidence of moderate quality to prove the reliability and internal consistency of retesting, the research content and methods are not standardized. In future research, attention should be paid to standardization to more accurately assess its applicability in the Chinese population.

Objective: The objective of this study was to assess the reliability and validity of the Turkish version of the Migraine Interictal Burden Scale-4 (MIBS-4) in patients with migraine. MIBS-4 measures migraine-related interictal burden in four domains related to difficulty in planning at work or school, family and social life, and emotional/affective and cognitive stress. Materials and Methods: A total of 178 patients with migraine were enrolled in this multicenter, prospective study in two consecutive interviews with 4-week intervals. The comprehensibility, patient–physician reliability, internal consistency, test–retest reliability, and validity of the Turkish translation of MIBS-4 were analyzed. Results: In terms of comprehensibility of all MIBS-4 questions, a statistically significant agreement was obtained between the patient and the physician (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] = 0.713; P < 0.001, ICC = 0.851; P < 0.001, ICC = 0.637; and P < 0.001, ICC = 0.760; P < 0.001). No statistically significant difference was found between the comprehensibility of the first, second, third, and fourth questions of MIBS-4 according to the patient self-test and the physician interviews (P = 0.167, P = 0.068, P = 0.121, and P = 0.225, respectively). A significant high consistency was obtained between the first and second interview values (ICC = 0.891; P < 0.001). Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was obtained between 0.818 and 0.845, and the scale was obtained with high reliability. A statistically significant positive correlation was obtained between the first and second interview MIBS values and Headache Impact Test-6, and the correlation coefficients were obtained as 0.158 and 0.330, respectively (P = 0.036 and P < 0.001, respectively). Conclusion: These results demonstrated that the Turkish translation of MIBS-4 is equivalent to the English version in terms of internal consistency, and it has high test–retest reliability and validity. The Turkish version of MIBS-4 can serve as a reliable, useful, and valid tool for assessing the burden on patients between migraine attacks, as well as aiding health-care professionals in enhancing migraine treatment strategies in Türkiye.

Background: The Frontal Assessment Battery (FAB), which is used to assess executive function, has been translated into several languages and shown to be valid and reliable. However, the validity and reliability of the Japanese version in patients with stroke are unknown. This study aimed to investigate the validity and reliability of the Japanese version of the FAB in patients with stroke. Methods: The Japanese version of the FAB for dementia was modified and evaluated in 52 patients with stroke. FAB measurements were obtained twice over a 10-day period. Convergent validity was assessed using the Stroop Color Word Test (SCWT) and the Trail Making Test (TMT) part B. Internal consistency was measured using Cronbach’s alpha (Cα). Test-retest evaluations were performed using intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC (2.1)] measurements, and limits of agreement (LOA) were calculated using the total FAB score. Results: The mean total FAB score was 13.4 ± 2.8 points, the ICC (2.1) was 0.856, and Cα was 0.92. The total FAB score was correlated with SCWT scores for parts I through IV (r = 0.70 to 0.77) and the TMT score for part B (ρ = −0.53). The LOA were −1.7 to 2.9 points. Conclusions: The Japanese version of the FAB had higher validity and reliability in patients with stroke.

Questions of increased reliability of responsible connections at a stage of their assembly are considered in the paper. This step provides the necessary operational characteristics of outputs. The special place among such responsible connections is occupied with the group threaded connections. Their assembly technology provides reception in fixing details normalized relatively identical axial efforts in regular intervals loading a sealing layer. The presented work results of experimental research on the group threaded connection assemblage process are given. Alternate calculations of efforts change in tightened pairs of threaded connections and their graphic interpretation are presented. An algorithmic calculation model of overload factors for fixing details has been developed. Recommendations about the use of the received settlement dependences, taking into account comparative theoretical and experimental data on assembly of group threaded connection, are offered.

The paper provides a systematic analysis of the origin, spread, and causes of shaft failure in the four-axle electric locomotive series 441. Based on this analysis, recommendations for preventive diagnostic maintenance are provided to timely identify the condition and avoid shaft failure, which is a vital component of the locomotive. Failure to maintain it in a timely manner can lead to catastrophic human, ecological, and material consequences. The paper also presents and explains the fracture surfaces of the locomotive’s hollow drive shaft, following a railway incident that caused the derailment of the rail vehicle, resulting in significant material damage. The presented fracture analysis is based on research into the mechanisms of failure, which by their appearance and action cause the formation of an initial crack. The dominant factor in the formation of the initial crack is material fatigue, and the potential presence of inclusions or local initial notches in the material structure formed during the shaft manufacturing process. Research has shown that the measured residual internal stresses after the shaft failure reached up to 470 MPa, significantly exceeding the allowable 300 MPa.

Introduction The straight leg raise (SLR) test is commonly used to investigate neurodynamic problems or hamstring muscle length. Visual estimation can be used to identify the degrees of hip flexion during the SLR test. However, intra-tester and inter-tester reliability, as well as concurrent validity, await formal investigation. Methods This study was an experimental study. Two testers, a novice and an experienced physical therapist, measured hip flexion angles during the SLR test using visual estimation for two sessions and the bubble inclinometer method during the first session in 31 asymptomatic participants, in random order. Intra-tester reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient, ICC 3,3 ), inter-tester reliability (ICC 2,3 ), concurrent validity (Pearson correlation with bubble inclinometer), and measurement error was represented as standard error of measurement (SEM) and minimal detectable change (MDC), were calculated. Results The concurrent validity and intra-tester reliability of visual estimation for both testers were good (ICC 3,3 = 0.885 with 95% confidence interval = 0.775–0.943, p < 0.001) and excellent (ICC 3,3 = 0.904 with 95% confidence interval = 0.810–0.952, p < 0.001), respectively. Inter-tester reliability of visual estimation was poor (ICC 2,3 = 0.373 with 95% confidence interval = 0.027–0.639, p = 0.018). Conclusions Although the concurrent validity of visual estimation with the bubble inclinometer was good, and intra-tester reliability was excellent, the inter-tester reliability was poor. Therefore, caution should be exercised if more than one tester is involved in visual estimation.

INTRODUCTION: Binge Eating Disorder (BED) is defined in the DSM-5 as 'consuming more food than most people can eat in a given period of time with an accompanying feeling of loss of control'. Although BED has only recently been defined as a distinct diagnostic category, studies show that it is the most common eating disorder in adults. Therefore, the measurement tools that can be used in the assessment of BED gain importance at this point. The aim of this study was to determine the psychometric properties of the Binge Eating Scale, which was developed by Gormally et al.44 and used in the assessment of BED, by adapting it into Turkish. METHODS: The study was conducted on two separate samples of individuals between the ages of 18-65/68. The second sample was used only for confirmatory factor analysis. The Eating Attitudes Test, Brief Symptom Inventory and Brief Self-Control Scale were used as criterion-related validity criteria. RESULTS: As a result of the exploratory factor analysis, it was seen that the scale had a single-factor structure. This single-factor structure explained 32.69% of the variance. The goodness of fit values obtained from confirmatory factor analysis were also found to be excellent and acceptable (e.g., χ2/sd= 2.93). The Cronbach's alpha reliability coefficient of the scale was found to be.85, and the Spearman Brown two-half reliability coefficient was found to be.76 (p

Abstract Background Foot and ankle problems are frequently prevalent, especially among the elderly, ranging from 70 to 80%. In primary care, foot, and ankle complaints stand out as one of the most frequent reasons for orthopedic consultations. Patient-reported outcome measures are significant in the assessment burden of any condition on the effects of intervention as well as research. The Foot Function Index (FFI) is a region-specific tool that was identified as one of the most commonly used evaluation tools for foot complaints. This study aimed to translate, cross-cultural adapt, and test the psychometric properties of FFI in the Urdu language. Methodology The FFI was translated into Urdu language (FFI-U) following Beaton et al. translation guidelines. The data were collected from 230 Urdu-speaking participants with different foot and ankle pathologies. Data collection started after the written informed consent from the participants. All participants completed the FFI-U, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), SF-36, and the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS) at baseline while only 30 participants completed ULFI-U after one week for test-retest reliability. The psychometric properties involved reliability and validity testing. Reliability was assessed where internal consistency was measured using Cronbach’s alpha and test-retest reliability through the intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC). FFI-U was tested for face validity and construct validity (convergent and discriminant). Psychometric criteria were examined against priori hypotheses, and alpha level (p-value